Know when to quit

I admit it, I’m a quitaphobe- the opposite of a commitaphobe! I am enthusiastic and excited when new opportunities present themselves and I can usually be convinced to take on new commitments. Often, I’ll even volunteer.

Many of you probably relate to this phenomenon, in a desire to be the best, the brightest, the perfectionist and not to let anyone down. You take on kid’s activities, events, walking shelter dogs, planning surprise parties. Whatever it is, you WANT to do it, but the reality is that if you are spread so thin, how can anything work?

My personal growth has helped me learn to say no, and yet “no” continues to be difficult for me. When I’ve already made a commitment, even when quitting is the best choice for my health and happiness, telling someone “no” becomes an anxiety-filled internal battle.

As I practice releasing limiting thoughts and behavior, I am reconsidering my current commitments and committing to work-life balance instead.

I am responsible for my own health and happiness, and my success depends on making choices that align with my values and intentions.

I have the option to reassess my situation and make changes as needed. Sometimes I need to adjust my activities and focus on what’s really important to me.

After months of considering my options and feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I finally made a commitment to myself and resigned two volunteer positions. Honoring myself in this way feels great!

If you’re struggling with quitting a commitment, quitting a job, quitting a habit, or quitting an activity, here are some helpful questions to ask yourself.

Am I having fun?
Few things in life are worth doing if you’re not having fun! We tend to think of work as work, but life should be fun, too. If you aren’t having fun, and what you’re doing isn’t absolutely necessary, then why are you doing it?

Do I feel motivated, or burned out?
Why do something that doesn’t light you up? The last thing any of us needs is to spend our time, money and energy doing something that leave us feeling exhausted and drained. If you don’t feel motivated by what you’re doing perhaps it’s time to quit!

Does it align with my goals?
Let go of any activities that aren’t helping you achieve your personal and professional goals and spend your mental, emotional and financial resources where they matter!

Am I doing this for myself, or someone else?
You are responsible for your own life. You can do your best and someone else still may not like or approve of you. The best you can truly do is to be true to you!

Do I have it to give?
You can’t give what you don’t have. Take care of you, fill up your cup, and give what you have leftover.

If a commitment, job, habit or activity isn’t helping you live your best life, it may be time to quit!

it's okay to quit

So you’re ready to quit! What’s next? Download the worksheet to uncover your next career move!

I love your comments! Tell me about something you quit! How did it make you feel?

Image courtesy of YanivG

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